Required Training

The EHS BLS005w Laser Safety Basic Training (Online) is required before operating a Class 3B or Class 4 laser at the University of Michigan (U-M). All laser users including technicians, engineers, maintenance and service personnel, and any other persons working with or potentially exposed to Class 3B and Class 4 laser radiation.

Training for Physics Department Staff

Additional training is required for individuals working with Class 3B and Class 4 lasers in the Physics Department. Contact Steve Katnik (skatnik@umich.edu) for this training.

Because the improper use of Class 3B or Class 4 lasers can create personal hazards to the users as well as long term liability to the U-M, it is important to maintain an accurate accounting of the devices to ensure no exposures occur. A lab director must notify the EHS Laser Safety Officer (LSO) when a Class 3B or Class 4 laser or laser system will be relocated, transferred to another lab director, sold or transferred to another institution, or sent to Property Disposition as surplus equipment. Follow the instructions provided in the Heels Black Brown Spring Comfort Light Summer Light Stiletto QOIQNLSN Suede Women'S Heel amp; Shoes Brown 6pqxWWvTw0.

Laser Pointers

Laser pointers are becoming increasingly popular and are used in a variety of ways ranging from use in teaching environments to toys to entertain our pets. While popular, laser pointers can be hazardous if not used properly and dangerous if used in unintended ways – for example due to concerns over impacts on pilots, some countries have banned over the counter laser sales. Most laser pointers are considered Class 3R laser products meaning their power “rating” range is from 1-5 milliwatts (mW); however the rating system is often inaccurate. Research has demonstrated that laser pointers with power less than 5 mW that conform to specifications can be used safely in the classroom and in other settings if used as directed.

Although laser pointers are not regulated at U-M they must be used responsibly and as intended.

Hazard of Laser Pointers

The hazard potential from laser pointers is generally exposure to unprotected, unexpected eyes of individuals who might be exposed to the open beam. The average person’s blink response is 0.25 seconds; also called the aversion response. That is the body’s natural defense mechanism and generally protects the eye. This generally limits the unintentional beam exposure to a safe level. If there is continual exposure or if someone looks into a 5 mW beam for more than 0.25 seconds, the exposure would exceed the Maximum Permissible Exposure potentially damaging the retina. The higher the exposure, the greater the risk. There is generally no risk as a skin hazard.

The following You Tube video from the FDA discusses using caution when handling laser pointers: